Status of the emission and transfer of pollutants in a medium-sized region

Abstract

The objectives of this work are to analyze the relationships of the productive structure, private consumption and harmful emissions to living beings and the environment. To identify economic activities with the highest amount of pollutants and which social groups consume the most products associated with these emissions. To determine the polluting substances associated with these consumptions. There are no detailed studies of this nature on the chosen region. Input–output, social accounting and pollutant matrices can contribute to a better understanding of the causes for implementing public policies that mitigate these harmful emissions. Conventional methodologies are used as the method of location quotients and the Flegg approach. Some results show that the manufacture of products is based on nonmetallic minerals, textile, leather and paper industries. As well as pipeline transport is the industry that pollutes the most in the air, water and soil, respectively. The most abundant pollutants in the air are carbon dioxide and formaldehyde in water, lead and nickel and on the soil, arsenic. The last one is accompanied by cadmium and mercury in mining, vehicle assembly and pipeline wear processes. Households with higher incomes contribute to pollution through the consumption of machinery and equipment manufacturing products, petroleum and coal products, beverages and tobacco. For middle-income households, in addition to the previous ones, it impacts pipeline transportation. The last one is related to the damage in pipes by the transport of water, gas and gasoline. For the consumption of all households despite of its income, the food industry is the one that most impacts this category. This investigation is mainly based on the use of administrative records. It would be proactive to promote awareness policies for homes and businesses on the monitoring of sewer pipes and networks. The areas where these emissions were detected correspond to the most populated area in the region.